Martha W. Killebrew

Martha W. Killebrew, age 99 of Franklin, Tennessee, passed away on March 9, 2026. Born on June 6, 1926 in Pulaski, Tennessee to the late Walter and Betty Williams, she lived a long and graceful life marked by creativity, faith, and quiet strength.

She is survived by her daughters, Virginia C. Buchanan and Martha R. Killebrew; grandchildren, Allen (Jayme) Buchanan and Beth (Steve) Boyce; great-grandchildren, Mitchell, Blake and Luke Buchanan and Maggie, Kate and Mary Beth Boyce; and many nieces, nephews, friends, and the caring staff at The Fountains of Franklin. She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Lester M. Killebrew; her son-in-law, Bruce Buchanan; and four sisters and one brother.

Martha found deep comfort and community at Hillsboro United Methodist Church in Leipers Fork, where she attended services with great joy for as long as she was able. Creative from an early age, she sang as a young girl and, in high school, performed at funerals for young men lost in World War II. Later in life she took up painting, excelled as a seamstress, and delighted in cooking for her family and baking with her great-granddaughters. Above all, she remained a devoted Christian and a true lady, offering warmth and kindness to everyone around her. Her spirit continues to inspire and uplift all who knew her.